Table 3 - A listing of representative types of narcotic pain medications. In general all of these medications includes a natural or synthetic analog of the opium substance from the opium poppy. All of these mimic a natural body chemical called an endorphin. They relieve pain in a variety of ways but have a risk of addiction and of dependence that can lead to needs for progressively higher doses.

All pain medications listed in the text and table of this site have side effects. In addition to those listed as special risks for each of these medications, there are serious but unusual side effects that occur rarely such as decreased production of blood cells by the body. All medications are risky for anyone who may be pregnant or who is breast feeding and require special attention before prescribing. With the exception of over-the-counter drugs, all of these medications should only be taken with a prescription for the patient and under the direction of a physician. Liver toxicity and kidney toxicity usually do not occur, but routine blood tests for signs of these problem are essential if they are taken on an ongoing basis. Narcotic drug dependency, addiction, and potiential for abuse are risks that can be controlled and monitored but are always a consideration when these medications are prescribed.